55. Remembering Len Bias (1963-1986)

Recently ESPN 30 for 30 aired a program entitled “Without Bias” that provided a detailed account of the events that led up to- and the aftermath of the University of Maryland basketball phenom Len Bias.  Leonard Kevin Bias (November 18, 1963 – June 19, 1986) was a first team All-American college basketball player who suffered a fatal cardiac arrhythmia that resulted from a cocaine overdose less than 48 hours after being selected second overall by the Boston Celtics in the 1986 NBA Draft.

Although this occurred over 20 years ago I recall this tragedy as if it were yesterday.  I can’t recall of another time in the history of sports where a 2^nd overall draft pick didn’t live to see the first day of training camp.

The Len Bias story is one that proved to all who hadn’t known it before, that cocaine is a potent drug and can be merciless even to first-time users.  The recent ESPN program opened an old wound for me as I contemplate the many black men who have succumb to the pressure of selling and using illegal substances.

Within five years of his passing, Len’s younger brother, Jay Bias, became a victim to gun violence.

A Detroit native, I spent my high school years in a community where the Young Boyz Incorporated ruled the streets of Dexter, Linwood and Chicago Blvd.  Every day we witnessed the residual effect of the drug trade.  It was also during that time span that I lost a friend due to an accident with a handgun.  With all the pain and frustration that went along with the surroundings of such, I’m sure my frustration was no match for that of Lonise Bias, a mother who lost two sons with promise within 5 years of the other.

I’m not a mother, nor have I lost any children, but a deep pain is felt in the pit of my stomach when I try to fathom what Lonise has endured.  That pain is erased as I learn that after 23 years (Len has been dead as long as he has been alive) Lonise Bias continues to dedicate her life to helping youth avoid the pitfalls of drugs, crime and illicit behaviors.

Dr. Lonise Bias - mother of Len & Jay Bias

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 23 years since my high school graduation.  I never grew to become a basketball star as was once my dream, but I’m thankful for the life and family that God has given me.  More importantly, I thank Him for giving me another chance.

I conclude this piece with a scripture from Romans 8:28 – “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Be blessed,

Copyright © 2009

54. Get On or Get Under with actor Tobias Truvillion

“I’m in the game and still playing.”  Such are the words of the late Tunde Samuels, executive producer of the National Black Theater and dear friend of actor Tobias Truvillion. 

Born October 1, 1967, Tobias Truvillion is an actor best known for his portrayal of the character Vincent Jones of the daytime soap One Life to Live.

We recently caught up with the New Yorker for this rare interview.  I’m sure you’ll find it as enjoyable as I did.

How did you get your start in the television and film industry?

I was a hungry, ambitious model who wouldn’t let barriers stop me. I was a Ford model for a long time. I did a lot of fashion work.  Along the way I was introduced to Phynjuar (pen-wah) who help me hone in my acting chops. Once bitten by the bug I never looked back. I have a deep passion for the arts.   

You played Vincent Jones in the long-running soap opera One Life to Live.  What was that experience like?

Working on the set of “One Life” was a wonderful experience.  I learned so much from watching great talent like Timothy Stickney, Phil Carey, Bob Woods, Renee Goldsberry and Kamar del Reyes – to name a few. Watching and listening taught me a great lesson. It’s so much more to be a great listener.  Frank Valentini gave me an opportunity and a great character.  I did my best to bring him (Vincent Jones) to life.  I can’t wait to resurrect him and bring him back to the canvas.  I can’t wait to bring that leading man presence back to daytime television.

You are a partner in designing custom shirts called Get On or Get Under.  Tell us about this venture.

Get on the bus or get under? Or get on or get under ?  In its simplest form it’s Get On!  It’s a brand/logo that our team developed.  We’re also a production company. We create commercials, music videos and webisodes. We also build video games and are now moving into developing and producing independent and feature films.  We do almost anything that needs to be recorded.  The core of “Get On” means to do something different with your life.  Follow your dreams. Put in hard work. Determination. Dedication. Disipline. Surrender to God.  Anytime one of us says “Get On” that simply suggests it’s time to do the work!  It means it’s your time to shine. One of the most unselfish acts to do is to give to someone. That’s also what “Get On” means. To give to others treat people how you would want to be treated. “Get On” is more than a brand; it’s a consciousness, a movement of like-minded minds, souls and spirits. Once you “Get On” we’re heading to that Promised Land. It cuts it very clean or dry. Either you’re On or your Under. There’s no time to waste.  Sh*t or get off the pot.

You mentioned Phynjuar, the mother of the late Michelle Thomas.  How is Michelle’s spirit evident in your working relations with Phynjuar?

I am so fortunate to have a wonderful relationship with Michelle Thomas’ mother, Phynjuar. I never had the pleasure to actually work with Michelle, but being around her mother, I see where she gets her beauty her brains and her talent.  (Phynjuar is) such a wonderful soul of unconditional love. Michelle’s light just radiates from her mother.  Integrity, dignity and showing people your talent on high level is not always an easy thing to accomplish.  Michelle did that with ease.  It’s a direct reflection of the love and support her mother gave, and continues to give her. She is deeply missed. 

What advice do you have for aspiring actors?

To all aspiring talent out there be fearless, have tough skin and never use the word “can’t” because anything is possible. Be dedicated to your craft.  Put God first and He will never let you down.  

What projects do you currently have in the works?

I’ve been cast in Antione Fuqua’s new film “Brooklyn’s Finest”, opposite Wesley Snipes and Don Cheadle.  The film is scheduled to be released in November 2009.  Also look out for a movie I did called “The Tested.”  You can go to thetestedthemovie.com to see the trailer. It’s has a 2010 release date.

As I close yet another interview I’m recalling Tobias’ favorite quote: “I’m in the game and still playing.” 

Still playing,

 

 

Copyright © 2009

53. Get yo’ hand outta’ my pocket

genocide [jen-uh-sayhd] – noun: the deliberate and systematic extermination of a national, racial, political, or cultural group.

These infamous words were yelled just seconds prior the assassination the man known to us as Malcolm X.  Black-on-black violence is nothing new.  Even during the Black Power movement of the 60’s, one of our greatest black leaders died at the hands of another brother.

A Detroit native and current resident of Atlanta, I have always loved visiting the city of Chicago.  Chicago is a robust city with a thriving commerce.  However, not unlike Detroit, Chicago can be a nightmare for black urban youth.

It’s ironic that just a few short weeks ago, Chicago, still basking in the afterglow of electing our first Black President, took center stage as it campaigned and awaited its bid to be the host city for the 2016 Olympics.  The irony is not the Olympic bid but rather the fact that Chicago has arguably become the nation’s most violent city for urban youth.  By summer of 2009, nearly 40 youth had been murdered.  Just 12 months prior the world gasped as famed singer Jennifer Hudson’s family buried her mother and nephew, both allegedly murdered at the hands of her sister’s ex-boyfriend.  More recently, in September of 2009, a Chicago youth and honors student, Derrion Albert was fatally beaten and videotaped.

My heart goes out to any person or family who has endured the tragedy of genocide.  Although I have opted to use Chicago to point out recent activities; the truth of the matter is that Chicago is merely a microcosm of a profound issue across ALL American urban cities.

All statistics aside; I am confident that the dawn of a new era in black men taking their rightful place in their homes and communities is evidenced by the recent historical election of Barack Obama.  I’m not looking for Obama to save our people; I’m looking for our people to regain the faith and confidence in themselves, thereby enabling them to be leaders and examples for their children to follow.

On October 8, 2009, President Barack Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize after just 10 months in office.  It is my hope that the prize fosters and facilitates peace not only throughout the world, but also here in America.  The president’s home town would be a great place to start.

D’s 2 cents,

 

 

 

Copyright © 2009

52. I Do…I Did – A chat with actress Cherie Johnson

Typically we start these interviews off with some form of catchy, literary introduction.  We’re going to dive right into this one without wasting any time.

Cherie Johnson is an actress and producer.  Born in Pittsburgh, Cherie is best known for her roles on the sitcoms Punky Brewster and Family Matters.

On Punky Brewster Johnson starred as Cherie Johnson, a character named and modeled after herself. She was the best friend of the title character, played by Soleil Moon Frye.  She played the role throughout the series’ run (1984–1986 and 1987–1988) with her actual grandmother Susie Garrett.

On Family Matters, Johnson portrayed the recurring role of Maxine, the best friend of Laura Winslow (Kellie Shanygne Williams). Johnson played the role from 1990–1998.

Johnson is the real life niece of TV producer David W. Duclon, who was responsible for starting her career. In addition to her starring roles, she has made guest appearances on The Parkers, and The Proud Family. She has also appeared on the soap opera Days of our Lives.

FathersFootprints was fortunate to secure a rare interview with Cherie.  Here’s what she had to say:

You got your start in the business in 1985.  How did you get your start?

CHERIE: My uncle created a show and thought it would be great to use my name.  I felt if he used my name I should play the part myself.   After seven auditions the head of NBC at the time felt the same way and I got the JOB!

You played yourself opposite Soleil Moon Frye in the 1980’s sitcom Punky Brewster.  What did you like most about that experience?

CHERIE: Well I did not play myself I just played a little girl with the same name.  Every day on the set was like a party and I got to see my best friend Soleil!  We were lucky we really got to be children.

In addition to your television roles, you also have film credits on your resume.  Which film did you most enjoy and why?

CHERIE: I’d have to say my latest film “I Do….I Did” for several reasons: 1) I wrote it;  2) I produced it;  and 3) I was able to play a different character that many of my fans do not like because she isn’t that little sweet Cherie everyone is use to seeing.  She is mean at times and vindictive which was so much fun.  Also, instead of being happy go lucky, I got to cry and express emotions.  I worked with my cousin, Shar Jackson, and my best friend, Antwon Tanner.  The production crew was a dream.  Twenty-seven years of smiling is boring. I’m glad I got a chance to spice it up.

The television and film industries are much different than they were when you got your start.  What advice do you have for young aspiring actors looking to break into the industry?

CHERIE: Don’t sit back and let other people control your dreams. You have to make your dreams happen for yourself; they will not fall out of the sky.

You are a part of Delano Glass’ film “Why Do Men Cheat?”  What was it like working with Delano?

CHERIE: Delano is a wonderful, creative genius. He sets a great atmosphere and really allows you be yourself, which is great.  The topic is sensitive to many people and he really didn’t censor me so I was able to express my true feeling and opinions.

Last week we celebrated Michelle Thomas’ birthday through a special tribute on this site (see Remembering Michelle).  You worked with Michelle on the sitcom Family Matters.  What was it like to work with her?

CHERIE: She is one of the most kind-hearted people I have ever met.  When you are around her you can’t help but to smile.  I read your tribute and cried like a baby.  It’s really hard for me sometimes. I’m still in denial about her being gone until someone asks me about her, then I’m forced to deal with the reality. I know she is in a better place and she is my angel in heaven as she was my angel on earth.

What can we expect from you in the near future?

CHERIE: 2009 has been a great year for me.  I have done 6 films which will be released within the next 2 years, that not only have I starred in, but also produced several of them. I have a book deal my first book “Cherie On Top” which should be out at the end of the year.  I have several songs on the radio over seas, so with an international tour forthcoming – the sky is the limit.  I have one life and I want to do it all.

We are eternally grateful that our sister took the time to provide us with a peek into her world.  We hope to continue to bring you features and updates on the blacks that help to form our entertainment and literary culture.

Until next time,

 

 

Copyright © 2009

51. It’s real Jazzy Belle

A few days ago I wrote a blog entitled Where did we go wrong? The intent was to cast light on the profound issue of brothers exploiting the sisters. This particular feature is directed to the sisters who may fit the description of exploiting themselves. If I step on any toes, excuse me in advance. If you’re not guilty of the following, simply forward the link to someone you know. In 1997 the famous rap duo from Atlanta known as OutKast penned a joint entitled Jazzy Belle.

According to Wiki, Jazzy Belle is the third and last single by Hip Hop group OutKast to be released from their album ATLiens. It was released as a remix single and it peaked at #52 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is the only single from the album ATLiens to be produced by Organized Noize, the other two singles being produced by OutKast themselves.

The premise of the track suggested that women are drawn like magnets to money and fame. It also suggests that they are willing to do much of anything simply to be in the presence of what they perceive to be success. I have a problem with this because although many of my sisters would not advocate this with their lips – if the truth be told, many of them are demonstrating this with their actions. Some sisters go through life buying into Outkasts’ philosophy that It’s Real Jazzy-Belle. There is nothing real about subjecting yourself to disrespect and humiliation. There is nothing real about being a groupie, or a sack-chaser (I just told my age with that one).

The bible suggests that the characters in the life of Jezebel were all affected in one way or another by her evil deeds. To obtain detailed account, check out 1st and 2nd Kings (it’s in the Old Testament). According to the bible (and big-mamma), being referred to as a Jezebel was never compliment.

Those who follow my blogs know that I hold black folks, particularly my sisters, in high esteem. However, recent events and observations have caused me to write to what I consider to be an issue of enormous proportion. While I don’t have a simple solution for this rapidly escalating travesty – I do NOT want Outkasts’ misogynistic lyrics to be the final word.

A question to the upstanding, educated, spirit-filled sisters; have you taken the time to uplift another sister who has yet to come into the realization that she is a queen?  If not, I am equally disappointed that you have arrived at a level of maturity, awareness and esteem without bringing along a sister in need of the same.

As I close, I once heard a man say “You can lose money chasing women but you can’t lose women chasing money.” I believe that if we are participating in this game, as a people we’re all lost.

D’s 2cents,

Copyright © 2009

50. Remembering Michelle (1968-1998) – A Mothers’ Footprints

The FathersFootprints’ journey has me afforded the opportunity to meet some really dynamic people.  While working on my first book, Daddy Am I Pretty? I met a woman by the name of Phyjuar (pronounced Pen-wah) Thomas, who is a gifted actor, comedian, music producer, music historian, radio personality and acting coach.  Although Phynjuar is an extraordinary woman, the focus of today’s blog feature is to celebrate the life of her famous daughter, Michelle Thomas.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Thomas grew up in Montclair, New Jersey and was an alumna of West Essex High School. She was the daughter of Phynjuar Thomas, a stage actress and Dennis Thomas a member of a music group Kool & the Gang.^]In the mid-1980s, Thomas was crowned Miss Talented Teen New Jersey in Hal Jackson’s Talented Teen Competition. The following year, she competed in the international pageant and won the title of International Queen.

Michelle made her acting debut in 1988 as Justine Phillips, the girlfriend of Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show. She later appeared on a various television programs during the late 1980s and 1990s including A Man Called Hawk and Thea. In 1991, Thomas had a small role in comedy Hangin’ with the Homeboys. Thomas also appeared in music videos for Mint Condition and Dru Hill.  In 1993, she won the role of Myra Monkhouse on the long-running sitcom Family Matters. After the series ended in 1998, Thomas portrayed Callie Rogers Stark, an aspiring singer on the CBS soap opera The Young and the Restless. She left the series in October 1998. Wiki

Michelle was best known for her role as Myra Monkhouse, the girlfriend of Steve Urkel, on the black sitcom Family Matters from 1993 to 1998.  Thomas was diagnosed with an incurable form of stomach cancer; intra-abdominal desmoplastic small round cell tumor, a rare soft tissue sarcoma.  On December 22, 1998, Michelle passed away in New York City at Manhattan’s Memorial at the age of 30.

I personally recall hearing of the news and feeling deeply saddened about the loss of such a beautiful, talented sister.  Those of you who remember her character Myra, know that she was a refreshing addition to the Family Matters’ line-up.

My heart and prayers go out to Phynuar and anyone who has had to bury their own child, especially at the height of that child’s success.  I cannot fathom attending a funeral for which Dominique is being eulogized.  My eyes are welling up at the mere thought.

I regret I never had the opportunity to meet Michelle personally.  However, after the numerous conversations with Phynjuar, I feel as if I’ve known her for a lifetime.  On September 23, Michelle’s birthday, we officially celebrate her life.   

“Dream about us together again! All I want is together again! I know we’ll be together again ’cause Everywhere I go Every smile I seeI know you are there Smilin’ back at me Dancin’ in moonlight I know you are free Cuz’ I can see your star Shinin’ down on me! HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY, WE’RE DANCING!” ~ Phynjuar

Until next time,

 

 

Copyright © 2009

49. Chronicles of an absent father

This is available in hard copy at http://www.lulu.com/content/paperback-book/ds-2-cents/7806521

48. Where did we go wrong?

This is available in hard copy at http://www.lulu.com/content/paperback-book/ds-2-cents/7806521

47. Black Men vs. White Men – A Preview

Last week we introduced you to author Cicely J – who has penned the book entitled “Black Men vs. White Men: The Black Woman’s Choice.”  The comments we received on that post seemed to suggest readers needed a little more.

After much pleading, FathersFootprints obtained an unreleased preview of Chapter 6 from Cicely J.  See the preview below:

Chapter 6: Black Men Have Given Up on Black Women

Sometimes I feel like because black men have ill relationships with their mothers they now have planted in their minds that all black women are manipulative and evil. I get so tired of hearing my African American sisters referred to as b*tches and whores on a regular basis. I know everyone says this all the time but we still keep hearing these derogatory descriptions of black women. It is on the videos, it is in our movies, and now it is on the playgrounds. Now women who pounce themselves up and down on poles for money and get half naked to be in a video, have brought it upon themselves to be disrespected that way. Even though it is not right and I still don’t condone it, if you present yourself in a certain light to these men, they will address you in that manner. It is not what you are called but what you answer to.

Would the real women please stand up.

I was at the gas station filling up my car. An old school Impala on 24s pulls up to the tank across from me. I know we are not supposed to stereotype but I was just ready for some ignorant, corn rolled, gold tooth wearing wannabe next rap star to get out of the car and say something stupid. Dee Dub got out of the car and looked at me and said “DAYUM MAH, YOU ALWAYS LOOK LIKE DAT!”….Huh? His music was blaring so loud I could hardly hear what he said. I just knew it was something real ghetto and ignorant. Because I didn’t reply he called me a b*tch. First of all I can’t hear you because Too Short is hollering B*ATCH in the background on your radio and my car is shaking. Second of all you are so scary looking and its dark outside and if I even acknowledge your presence you may take that as an invitation to start talking to me. Dee Dub goes into the gas station to pay for his gas. His friend, cousin, parole officer, whoever he was got out of the back seat to pretend to come over and pump the gas but he really wanted to talk to me.

He wasn’t as ignorant as Dee Dub. He said, “Hello, my name is Timothy, what’s yours?” Dee Dub came out and was like “Temo don’t even talk to that stuck up b*tch. She think n*ggas out here broke or sumin.” Timothy said not to pay attention to him. “He all liquored up and feisty.” Liquored up, but he just got out of the driver’s seat. Wow. I get pulled over for a tail light being out but here we have Dee Dub driving drunk and passing weed back and forth, Temo, who by the way had just got out of jail which is why he was so calm and appeared educated. He’s been reading the last few months in Santa Rita, and two other misfits in the car with the radio pass level 10 with hydraulics and tinted windows. Timothy and I continued to talk for a few minutes while the gas pumped and Dee Dub was getting more and more irritated. Mainly because he wasn’t the one who got to converse but oh well, Timothy just happened to be at the pump. Dee Dub goes in his car and comes back with fliers and CDs and all kinds of other promo stuff to show me who he was. I still don’t know. I didn’t act impressed. I don’t know much about rap unless it’s commercial. To impress me he pulled out a wad of money and started throwing it. I looked, I laughed, I got in my car and I drove away.

Cicely is very appreciative of the outpouring and support from the previous blog interview. Copies of this book will be available in October for $19.95.  Those who go to http://crjpublishing.com  and purchase it online can pre-order it for $15.95 (+ shipping).

Until next time,

 

Copyright © 2009

46. Black Men or White Men? Let’s ask Cicely J.

Our faithful readers know that they can count on substantive content with the FathersFootprints’ blog.  We hope to continue to meet that expectation with today’s column.

In a world mired with reality TV, sports scandals and raunchy music, it is refreshing to meet people who share our values of providing uplifting and informative written content.  Today’s FathersFootprints’ guest is author/entrepreneur – Cicely J.

Cicely is best known for her politically incorrect approach and her controversial subject matters. But at the same time she wants her audience and her peers to know that she is not another “tell-all author.” With the market flooded with celebrity scandal and gossip blogs, Cicely decided to bring something different, fresh, and new to the market. She does not write about fantasy or romance. She brings you the good, the bad, the ugly and the truth. It may make you mad, it may make you repent, but at the end of the day what she writes will certainly make you think. 

We recently caught up with the talented sister and had just a few questions to help our readers get to know her on a deeper level.

_______________________________________________________________

Name: Cicely Johnson

Vital Stats: 30-ish, single, 1 child

Hometown: Vacaville, CA

Profession: Author, publisher, entrepreneur

Quote: If you give your woman some groceries she will make you a meal; if you give her a house she will make it a home; if you give her hell she will give it right back…

________________________________________________________________

1. You made the comment “I am not a tell-all author.”  Can you tell us what that means?

People look at me and the fact that I use to model and have been around the industry for a while and (they) automatically assume that I am another tell-all author. I haven’t had any affairs with famous ball players or rappers. I am just a writer.  I studied English Literature in college and have been writing since I was a little girl.  I don’t want to be jumbled in the pile with all the gossip writers. That market is fully saturated. (Cicely pictured rt)

 

2. You currently reside on the West Coast and will soon be relocating to Atlanta to launch your publishing company.  Why not launch it in L.A.?

Actually I live in Northern California. I am in a small town called Vacaville (near Sacramento) and exposure is minimal. If I was still focusing on modeling or movies, LA would be a good place for me to be; but I am a writer and I want to be in the center of where it is all happening. I have better access to the literary market on the East Coast if I relocate. An opportunity presented itself so I am gonna roll with it. Plus it is my dream to work with Tyler Perry so I need to be as close to his studio as possible when I get that phone call you know, LOL. 

 

3. Your new book “Black Men vs. White Men – The Black Woman’s Choice” is sure to be controversial.  Without giving away too much of the book; what can we look forward to in this work?

Well it is not a bash all black men book. It really is a wake-up call. People seem to think that just because Obama made it to office that our work is done. Our work has just begun and as the original leader of the family, black men need to stand up and play his role. I have a lot of single friends who are college educated, beautiful, home owners, etc. but can’t find a decent man. I tell them to stop sitting around waiting on Mr. Right and stop focusing on just black men. Love comes in so many different colors and I encourage women to date abroad.

 

4. We don’t know much about the history of your personal relationship with dating. What is impetus behind such a book?

The fact of the matter is we outnumber you guys. There are good men out there but not enough to choose from. A lot of successful black men choose Caucasian or Latina woman over us. Then we have the ones who are on the “DL”. As single black women what are we expected to do. I hear the frustration, I see the tears, and I have experienced the loneliness myself.

 

5. As you know we are near completion of our first book entitled Daddy, Am I Pretty? in which you will be featured.  How has your relationship with your father or (lack thereof) helped to make you the woman you are today?

My father and I had an awesome relationship. He was my Daddy. He passed away 6 months ago and I was there with him until he took his last breath. My dad always put us first. He bought me flowers, he combed my hair when I was a little girl, he opened the doors for me and he loved and respected my mother. I guess that is why I am so hard on men; because I had such a great example of how a man is supposed to be. They don’t make ‘em like my daddy anymore.

 

6. There are currently 1,200 people on your pre-order waiting list for the release of your book.  When will it be available and how can mere mortals obtain a copy?

I have been going back and forth with the publishing company to secure a definite date. One of the other authors has a book releasing around the same time and we all try to support each other. The last date agreed upon was September 26 but I really don’t want to rush the release. This is my first project and I want to do it big. I am leaning towards an October release. But pre-orders will be available next week and they can go to my site: www.crjpublishing.com

I am a networker and I am on just about every site you can think of. If people have questions about the book or questions about publishing (we are looking for writers now) they can find me on myspace, twitter, and facebook.

Well brothers, there you have it.  As I sign off I end this blog with a question a young man had of his mother.  He asked ‘How can I find the right woman for me?’ His mother answered, ‘Don’t worry about finding the right woman- concentrate on becoming the right man.’  Let’s tighten up brothers.

Until next time,

 

 

 

If you’d like to opine on this issue of Black Men vs. White Men by all means be my guest.  Simply click the comment link in the lower right hand corner of this feature.

Copyright © 2009